Top OPT-Friendly Courses for International Students in the USA
For international students planning to study in the USA, OPT (Optional Practical Training) is a great opportunity to gain practical experience in your field of study after graduation. However, some courses have better OPT prospects than others. If you're looking to make the most out of your study abroad experience and boost your career, here are the top OPT-friendly courses to consider in 2025.
Understanding OPT: A Gateway to Work Experience
What is OPT and How Does It Work?
OPT (Optional Practical Training) is a program that allows international students on an F1 visa to gain work experience in their field of study. Students can apply for up to 12 months of work under OPT, with an additional 24-month extension for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) graduates. OPT gives students a competitive edge by helping them secure relevant jobs in the U.S.
Top Courses That Maximize OPT Opportunities
1. Information Technology & Computer Science
Why IT and Computer Science Are OPT-Friendly:
The IT and Computer Science fields are among the most OPT-friendly areas in the U.S. With a constant demand for software developers, data analysts, and IT support specialists, OPT gives international students the chance to build hands-on experience while earning.
Popular Courses:
Software Engineering
Data Science
Cybersecurity
Information Systems
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
2. Engineering Disciplines
Why Engineering Courses Are Ideal for OPT:
Engineering courses consistently rank high on the OPT scale due to the ever-growing need for skilled engineers across the globe. Whether you’re pursuing mechanical, civil, electrical, or aerospace engineering, the U.S. has a wide variety of job opportunities post-graduation.
Popular Courses:
Mechanical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Aerospace Engineering
Environmental Engineering
3. Business Administration and Management
Why Business Courses Are OPT-Friendly:
An MBA or Business Administration degree opens a variety of doors in the U.S. job market. With the chance to work in global companies in finance, marketing, and management, business students benefit from a wide array of OPT options.
Popular Courses:
Business Administration
Marketing
Finance
Entrepreneurship
Human Resource Management
4. Healthcare and Life Sciences
Why Healthcare Fields Offer Great OPT Opportunities:
With the healthcare industry continuously evolving, there are vast opportunities for international students in fields such as public health, healthcare management, and nursing. Many positions in healthcare are eligible for OPT and allow students to gain experience in one of the fastest-growing industries in the U.S.
Popular Courses:
Public Health
Healthcare Administration
Nursing
Pharmacy
Biomedical Sciences
5. Social Sciences & Research
Why Social Sciences Are Great for OPT:
Social sciences such as psychology, sociology, and social work offer international students the opportunity to apply their academic knowledge to real-world settings, whether in research, public policy, or nonprofits. Many social science degrees qualify for OPT.
Popular Courses:
Psychology
Sociology
Social Work
Anthropology
Political Science
Conclusion
Choosing the right OPT-friendly course can significantly enhance your study-abroad experience in the USA. Whether you’re pursuing a degree in computer science, engineering, or business, OPT provides invaluable work experience to help you kickstart your career. With the right course, you can open doors to global career opportunities while studying in the U.S.
Ready to Begin Your U.S. Study Journey?
Visa Valley is here to support you throughout your journey — from your application process to settling into life in the USA. Let our expert team make your international education experience smooth, stress-free, and successful. Start your journey with Visa Valley today!
